Leaders of Central American nations say they will work to make their region transparent and free of corruption.

Six presidents, plus representatives of Belize and the Dominican Republic, signed the pledge Wednesday during the 12th International Anti-Corruption Conference in Guatemala.

They declared that their primary goal is to build a fair, equal and transparent society in Central America.

Guatemalan President Oscar Berger said the declaration is an important document in the fight against corruption. He said corruption is the main obstacle to regional development. The presidents of Honduras, Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Costa Rica also signed the declaration.

The anti-corruption conference in Antigua, Guatemala, has attracted about 1,200 officials and scholars from around the world. The meeting ends Saturday.